55-0115. Comprehensive management plan; contents.The designated planning entity shall prepare the plan for the special groundwater protection area. The plan shall be designed to ensure the non-degradation of the high quality of groundwater recharged within the special groundwater protection area. Where local plans already exist which effectuate the goals of this article, such local plans shall be evaluated and incorporated as is appropriate into the work of the planning entity. Such plan shall include but not be limited to:
1. A determination of the quality of the existing groundwater recharged through said special groundwater protection area, the natural recharge capabilities of the special groundwater protection area watershed and the dependence of any natural ecosystems in the special groundwater protection area on the water quality and natural recharge capabilities of said area;
2. An identification of all known existing and potential point and non-point sources of groundwater degradation;
3. Development of specific watershed rules and regulations pursuant to section eleven hundred of the public health law, which are designed to accomplish the purposes of this article;
4. A map showing the detailed boundary of the special groundwater protection area or areas as well as a precise written description of such boundaries;
5. A resource assessment which determines the amount and type of human development and activity which the ecosystem can sustain while still maintaining existing ground and surface water quality and protecting unique ecological features;
6. The identification and proposal of limits on federal, state and local government financially assisted activities and projects which, directly or indirectly, may contribute, in any way whatsoever, to any degradation of such groundwater or any loss of natural surface and subsurface infiltration or purification capability of the special groundwater protection area watershed;
7. Development of a comprehensive statement of land use management as it pertains to the maintenance and enhancement of groundwater quality and quantity;
8. Proposal of limits on land uses that might have an adverse impact on water quality and/or recharge capabilities in the special groundwater protection area;
9. Consideration and proposal of specific techniques, including, but not limited to: clustering, large lot zoning, purchase, exchange or donation of conservation easements or development rights, and other innovative measures sufficient to achieve the objectives of this section;
10. Designation of specific areas within special groundwater protection areas suitable and appropriate for public acquisition; and
11. A program for local governmental implementation of the comprehensive management plan described in this subdivision in a manner that will insure the continued, uniform, consistent protection of this area in accord with the purposes of this article.
Last modified: February 3, 2019